Ohio Maternity Leave Proposal: The Ohio Civil Rights Commission is proposing legislation that would change that state’s anti-pregnancy discrimination laws to enable all working moms to take twelve weeks’ post-childbirth leave without fear of losing their jobs. While the federal Family and Medical Leave Act requires businesses with at least 50 employees to give leave to new moms if they have worked for the company for at least1,250 hours in the previous twelve months, the Ohio proposal would guarantee leave for women working for companies with at least four employees, regardless of how long they have been employed. The proposal is facing criticism from some who feel the law would hit small businesses too hard.

West Nile Spreading? California ’s Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has declared a state of emergency in three California counties that have been hit hardest with West Nile Virus. Kern, Colusa and San Joaquin counties will receive extra funding to combat the mosquito-borne disease.

Happy World Breastfeeding Week!

(Thanks, Alison, for the picture!)